Just two months prior when Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the source for Villa's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. After the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery tore off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Serious Hopefuls?
This is a particularly tough query to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, even as the positive results have accumulated.
As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a club that have put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear strangely fragile – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more when facing United.
His opener came from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A statistical correction could be the biggest rival they will encounter in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot keep on blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The winger may rediscover the force he resembled during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial player for the national team.
The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
